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Career Opportunities

Jobs in Biology

There are many jobs available to individuals with degrees in biology. A Ph.D. is usually required for independent research, but a bachelor's or master's degree is sufficient for many careers in applied research, product development, and health care, as well as many nonresearch jobs. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, job competition can be quite high for doctoral degree holders seeking independent research positions, however those with bachelor's or master's degrees generally have ample employment opportunities.

Many jobs for biologists are in fields such as Health Care, Research and Development, Agriculture, Environmental Sciences, Education, Public Health, Government Agencies, and Forensic Science.

Where Biologists Work

The U.S. Department of Labor statistics indicate that about 40% of biological scientists work for the government in some capacity, while most of the rest work in pharmaceutical and biotechnology establishments, hospitals, or research and testing laboratories. Many biologists also go on to hold teaching positions in universities, colleges, and secondary schools. Here is a list of some employers of biologists:

Pharmaceutical Companies

Biotechnology Firms

Veterinary Medicine

Colleges and Universities

Hospitals

Public health facilities

Zoos and Aquariums

Arboretums

Fish and Wildlife Service

National Institutes of Health

Government Laboratories

Research Laboratories

Environmental Agencies

Conservation Agencies

Inspection Agencies

Control Boards

Agricultural Industry

Manufactures of lab equipment

Manufactures medical supplies

Research foundations

Cosmetic companies

Chemical manufacturers

Dental Heath facilities

Museums

The Future of Biology

Although no one can predict the future, job growth in biology continues to be higher than the national average. The biological sciences experienced rapid growth in the 80's and 90's, mostly because of the growth of major biotechnology companies. Unfortunately, competition for jobs will almost certainly remain high for those seeking independent research positions. However, the future is brighter for those looking for science-related jobs in sales, marketing, and research management, or as engineering technicians, health technologists and technicians. (U.S. Dept of Labor) Biology Job Links

Dr. Laura K. Palmer

Biography:Laura Palmer’s research concerns mechanisms of action of volatile anesthetics,
signaling pathways in the regulation of protein synthesis, and translational control of
gene expression. She teaches courses in introductory biology, cell and molecular
biology, and genetics.

Dr. Corien Bakermans

Biography:Corien Bakermans, assistant professor of microbiology,
earned her doctorate from Cornell University.
Her research involves determining what adaptations
microorganisms have evolved to live in low temperature environments like Arctic and Antarctic permafrost and how these adaptations are relevant
to ecological success and ecosystem processes.